What is Travel Tuesday and How Did it Come to Be?
The story of Travel Tuesday starts with another well-known shopping frenzy—Black Friday. In the 1950s and 60s, Black Friday marked the post-Thanksgiving shopping rush. Over time, the excitement spread to the digital world with Cyber Monday, a dedicated day for online shopping discounts on all things tech.
While these two days focus on electronics, clothing, and holiday gifts, the travel industry has its version with Travel Tuesday. In 2017, Hopper, a travel app, noticed a surge in flight deal searches on the Tuesday after Thanksgiving. With this, the travel industry saw an opportunity to create its own buzz with deals on flights, hotels, and experiences. The idea worked, and Travel Tuesday became “a thing.”
Unlike other shopping days, which focus on physical goods, Travel Tuesday is about seizing deals on experiences. Studies show more people are ditching physical possessions to explore and create memories. This makes Travel Tuesday a perfect fit for budget travelers looking for deals on flights, cruises, and accommodations.
When Is Travel Tuesday 2024?
Mark your calendars because Travel Tuesday 2024 falls on December 3 this year. It is always on the first Tuesday after Thanksgiving, making it the perfect extension of Black Friday and Cyber Monday.
While December 3 is the official date for 2024, many deals will start rolling out as early as Thanksgiving weekend, so watch for early promotions. Deals are often time-sensitive, so preparation is key to making the most of Travel Tuesday deals.
What Types of Travel Deals to Expect on Travel Tuesday?
Travel Tuesday offers something for every type of traveler. Here are a few kinds of deals you can expect to see:
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Flights: Many airlines offer significant discounts on both domestic and international flights. Watch for flash sales or promo codes that save you hundreds of dollars.
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Hotels and resorts: Hotels often slash prices on room rates, making it the perfect time to book your next stay. You may also find package hotel deals with accommodations and other perks like complimentary breakfast or spa treatments.
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Vacation packages: Travel Tuesday deals are a great chance to book discounted packages that include your flight, hotel stay, and sometimes even activities.
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Cruises: Keep an eye out for cruise deals on Travel Tuesday. You may find discounts, onboard credits, or other perks on major cruise lines that make your voyage even more affordable.
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Car rentals: Many car rental companies offer significant discounts or free upgrades during this time.
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Travel insurance: Many travel insurance companies offer discounts or added coverage on Travel Tuesday, so be sure to include this in your travel plan.
The beauty of Travel Tuesday lies in its variety. Whether planning an all-inclusive resort stay or looking for the cheapest flight to Europe, there’s likely a deal for you.
Tips to Snag the Best Travel Tuesday Deals
Want to land the best travel Tuesday deals when the day rolls around? Follow these tried-and-tested methods to make the most of your bargain hunting:
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Plan ahead: Start your research a week or two in advance. Have a clear idea of the destinations, dates, and types of accommodations you’re interested in. This helps you act as and when you see a deal.
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Set alerts: Platforms like Google Flights and Hopper allow you to set price alerts for specific flights or destinations. These alerts notify you when a price drops, helping you jump on the best deals without refreshing your screen every hour.
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Be flexible with dates and destinations: You must be flexible when planning a budget travel. Adjusting your travel dates by a day or two can truly affect the prices. Use tools highlighting the cheapest days to fly or stay, and plan accordingly.
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Start early: Timing is everything. Some deals drop before Travel Tuesday officially begins, so check for Thanksgiving weekend promotions. The sooner you act, the better your chances of getting your desired deal.
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Leverage loyalty programs: Combine Travel Tuesday discounts with your gathered miles on airlines or hotel reward points for even greater savings. Some platforms also allow you to collect and stack discounts and rewards.
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Check for bundled packages: Sometimes, booking flights and hotels as a package can save you more than booking each separately. Look for bundled travel packages with extra perks like car rentals or meals.
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Have a budget in mind: Exciting as the discounts may be, it’s easy to overspend. Set a realistic budget for your Travel Tuesday bookings and try to stick to it.
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Double-check cancellation policies: While deals seem irresistible, remember to read the fine print. Understand refund and cancellation policies, especially before finalizing your travel dates.
Bonus Tip: Keep your travel documents ready. If booking international flights, ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond travel dates.
Travel Tuesday offers a unique chance for travelers to grab irresistible deals and start planning their next adventure. By preparing in advance and using the tips above, you’ll increase your chances of scoring your dream trip at a fraction of the usual cost.
Whether you dream of a beachside escape, a cultural city tour, or a mountain retreat, this day caters to every travel style. Use Travel Tuesday to turn your travel aspirations into reality, and don’t forget to set those alerts now!
